An advanced software tool for holistic environmental impact assessment that fulfills the needs of integrated management

When discussing the opening of new areas for oil and gas activities, much attention is given to the potential effects of acute oil spills on commercially important fish stocks. This has resulted in a demand for ecology based impact assessments. We need sophisticated models to simulate possible outcomes of an oil spill. While today, ecological models exist, these models are not linked and they are not particularly suited for risk assessment purposes. SYMBIOSES is an integrated modeling system that makes it possible to model ecological effects of oil pollution and fishing in the Barents Sea. The SYMBIOSES tool will contribute to improved risk assessment procedures, hence there is clear benefit for society to prepare the tool for routine use. Before the m odel can be used by important actors in society such as government regulators, local authorities, insurance companies, and environmental organizations it is essential to test the performance capability of the SYMBIOSES software. Is the model capable of s imulating the impacts of human activities on the marine ecosystem in a realistic and detailed manner? In this project we answer this question by testing the model under different theoretical environmental impact scenarios. We will create an archive of si mulation results to demonstrate the performance capability of the software. This software tool can also be adapted for use in other marine areas where industrial activities are planned. The software can be a valuable assessment tool to be used whenever n ew activities are planned. The software is developed by a consortium of international partners with a strong foundation for success in the SYMBIOSES entrepreneurial venture. The SYMBIOSES software enhances Norway's position as a leading and competitive o il and gas technology cluster. The project, financed by The Research Council of Norway, will produce significant benefits to society as it will contribute to the sustainable management of maritime activities.